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Biological Technician

Biological technicians do routine analysis and technical work in the field, lab or both. They provide technical support and services for scientists and engineers. They may work in agriculture, environmental science, resource management, plant and animal biology, microbiology, biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, or health sciences.

In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.

The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:

Interest in precision working with laboratory equipment to conduct experiments and tests

innovative

Interest in compiling information to assist in conducting field research and surveys; and in collecting data and samples

Reading Interest Codes

A Quick Guide

The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation. It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective and Social.

A biological technician’s education and experience determines the nature and level of responsibility they have on the job.

Working Conditions

Updated Mar 31, 2018

Work settings vary a lot. Biological technicians may do most of their work indoors in labs and offices. They may work outdoors in all weather conditions. Some technicians work in both settings. Those who work outdoors may travel to remote locations and drive boats, quads, or trucks with standard transmissions.

Some types of work are more physically demanding. Some work involves microbial tests and lab analyses. Technicians doing this type of work must follow health and safety rules. This helps them avoid exposure to infectious bacteria and viruses. Fieldwork can expose technicians to fungi, viruses, or other biological agents.

Hours of work can vary. Long hours may be required, including evenings and weekends. Some jobs are seasonal.

Certified Technician

Under general supervision, certified technicians routinely apply industry-recognized codes, standards, procedures and practices. They use established engineering, geoscience or applied science principles and methods to solve problems. Duties may include testing, troubleshooting, inspecting, calibrating, drafting, maintaining, modelling, compiling, surveying, ensuring quality control, supervising in the field and working in sales.

government departments that deal with parks, fish and wildlife, agriculture, and public lands

forensic labs

post-secondary research labs.

Competition for positions is keen. Many new entrants do seasonal or part-time work before they get permanent positions.

Prospects for advancement are limited. Master’s and doctoral degrees are needed for most research and management positions.

Biological technicians are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 2221: Biological technologists and technicians. In Alberta, 76% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:

Swipe left and right to view all data.Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

A: High Reliability

Data Reliability Code Definition

High Reliability, represents a CV of less than or equal to 6.00% and 30 survey observations and/or represents 50% or more of all estimated employment for the occupation.

Updated Mar 31, 2018. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.